If you're in the market for new windows, you may be wondering which windows are right for you. There are multiple options from which to choose, but you can find the right window for your home or commercial business. If you would like to know more, keep reading.
Windows That Open
There are multiple types of windows that open, including casement windows, single hung windows, double hung windows, awning windows, and horizontal sliding windows. Single-hung windows and double-hung windows usually slide to open.
With single-hung windows, only the bottom sash can be opened, while double-hung windows allow you to open both sashes. As the name suggests, horizontal sliding windows also slide to open, but they slide left and ride instead of up and down. Some allow you to open one side of the window, but some allow you to open both sides.
Casement and awning windows swing open, usually outward. In many cases, these swinging windows are more efficient than options that slide. They create a better seal when closed, and it's easier to keep them clean because there is no track that can get clogged and dirty.
Windows that open are ideal in homes, especially in areas where you want good ventilation like bedrooms and bathrooms. They may not be good for high-rise buildings or commercial buildings.
Windows That Don't Open
Windows that don't open, also known as picture windows, are great for commercial buildings. They can't be opened, so there is less risk of someone falling and getting hurt, or someone breaking in through the unlocked window. Plus, since the windows are fixed in place, there is less risk of heat loss or heat gain.
These windows come in many sizes, and many are incredibly large, taking up most of the wall. This isn't usually possible with windows that open. For this reason, picture windows are also great for adding more natural light and views.
Double and Triple-Pane Windows
Single pane windows have one layer of glass that separates the outside world from the inside of your house. Glass, however, is not a great insulator, so heat loss and heat gain are common around single pane windows. For this reason, many people choose windows with two or three layers of glass. The extra layers of glass provide a buffer. Plus, insulating gasses are often added.
In addition, the extra layers can provide noise-canceling properties, and they tend to be more durable, making it harder to break into the building or house. For this reason, double and triple-pane windows are a great option for both residential and commercial buildings.
Naturally, the more panes there are, the more expensive the windows are. If one of the panes breaks, the window will become less effective.
Reinforced Windows
You can also choose to get windows that have been reinforced or strengthened in some way. This includes tempered glass, laminated glass, fire-resistant glass, and other modified glass types. Many of these provide more security than standard glass. For example, laminated glass, when hit, will not break apart. It will shatter, but the lamination holds the pieces together, so any potential criminal still has a hard time getting inside.
Similarly, you can get tinted windows, mirrored glass, and patterned glass. These make it harder to see inside the building, which makes it hard for potential criminals to see what you have, reducing the risk of a burglary. Reinforced windows can help anyone, but they are ideal for commercial buildings.
New windows are a great investment because they can help reduce energy loss and increase safety. The perfect window for you, however, may not be the perfect window for your neighbor. If you would like to know more,
contact us at All American Glass.
